CAD – Computer Aided Design.
CAM – Computer Aided Manufacturing.
CNC – Computer Numerical Control.
Climb Cut – Cutter rotates with direction of feed. Climb cutting prevents tearout, but can lead to chatter marks with a straight-fluted bit; a spiral-fluted bit will reduce chatter.
Conventional Cut – Cutter rotates against direction of feed. Results in minimal chatter but can lead to tearout in certain woods.
Feed Rate – Speed at which the cutting tool moves through the workpiece.
G-Code – A universal numerical control (NC) machine tool language that specifies axis points to which the CNC router machine will move.
Grid – The minimum movement, or feed, of the router head. Head automatically moves to next grid position when button is toggled in continuous or step mode.
Home Position (Machine Zero) – Machine-designated zero point determined by physical limit switches. (It does not identify actual work origin when processing a workpiece.)
LCD – Liquid Crystal Display (used on the controller).
PLT (HPGL) – Standard language for printing vector-based line drawings, supported by CAD files.
Spindle Speed – Rotational speed of cutting tool (RPM).
Step Down – Distance in Z-axis that the cutting tool plunges into the material.
Stepper Motor – A DC motor that moves in discrete steps by receiving signals, or “pulses” in a particular sequence, thus resulting in very precise positioning and speed control.
Step Over – Maximum distance in X or Y axis that cutting tool will engage with uncut material.
Subtractive Method – CNC Router bit removes material to create shapes. (Opposite of additive method.)
Toolpath – User-defined, coded route which the cutter follows to machine the workpiece. A “pocket” toolpath cuts the surface of the workpiece; a “profile” or “contour” toolpath cuts completely through to separate the workpiece shape.
U Disk – External data storage device that is inserted into a USB interface.
Work Origin (Work Zero) – The user-designated zero point for the workpiece, from which the CNC router head will perform all its cutting. X, Y and Z axes are set to zero.
Further Reading
Can You Use Regular Router Bits in a CNC Machine?
Can you use regular router bits instead of turning tools and milling cutters in a CNC machine such as a mill and lathe? Review this guide to understand how to choose and use router bits in a machine tool.
What is G-code for CNC Machine?
G-code is a type of easy-to-use preparatory computer numerical control programming language used in CAM software to control a CNC machine to work automatically.
A Guide to CNC Programming for Beginners & Programmers
In this article, you will understand what is CNC programming for beginners, how to use the best CAD/CAM software to create personalized programs for programmers in modern industrial CNC machining.
How to Make Custom Signs with CNC Machines?
Need a CNC sign making machine to custom signage for your home & business to meet your budget and style? Review the guide on how to make custom signs with CNC router, laser engraver, laser cutter, plasma cutter or other CNC machines.
2023 Top Reviewed CNC Machines for Woodworking
Looking for the best CNC machine for 2D/3D woodworking plans in 2023, follow the practical guide to the top reviewed wood CNC machines to start or grow your business in modern furniture making, cabinet making, door making, sign making, wood crafts and other popular custom woodworking projects.
2023 Best CNC Routers for Aluminum
Find 2023 best CNC routers for 2D/3D aluminum parts machining, mold making, sheet cutting, tube cutting, aluminum composite panel cutting, and relief carving.